Worcestershire County Cricket Club

Client: Worcestershire County Cricket Club
Architect: Lett & Sweetland
Type of works: supply of ceramic granite and wood composite facades.

The warmth of wood against the cool strength of granite provides a winning combination of products from Benchmark on the new £1.6 million Worcestershire County Cricket Club members and players pavilion.

The ceramic granite and wood composite facades were specified to provide the sharp modern clean lines the design demanded, and were installed to all four elevations of the two-storey pavilion, which has been named after the legendary Worcestershire and England Cricketer, Graeme Hick.

Ian Buchanan of Lett & Sweetland Architects commented: “We were looking for cladding panels that could achieve a contemporary look and the ceramic granite and wood composite facades from Benchmark meant we could use a relatively simple composite cladding panel beneath to provide the necessary weathering and thermal properties, whilst allowing us the freedom to manipulate the panels to provide a striking facade.

“This is the first time we have used these particular products. We found that the colour ranges and finishes on offer were excellent and presented plenty of choice when looking to create a pleasing aesthetic.”

The wood composite facade for the pavilion was specified in rich Rustic to sharply contrast with the natural tones of the unpolished ceramic granite facade; the glow of the wood against the light colour of the stone enhances the difference in texture between the two.

The real wood veneers of the wood composite facades are sourced from sustainably managed forests, and a tough resin finish protects the wood against the effects of sunlight, chemical or atmospheric attack. The hardwearing ceramic granite facade combines refined clays, quartz, feldspars and metal oxides to closely reproduce all the beauty and variation of natural granite or marble, but in comparison with naturally quarried materials, the loadings on the substructure and building exterior are dramatically reduced.

A secret-fix system for both products hid all fasteners from view, allowing the materials to be presented in an uninterrupted smooth face.

The building, which has been raised above the flood plain, has been designed to accommodate all of the different functions of the business-side of the club and houses changing rooms, an umpire’s room, cricket office, players’ dining room and physiotherapy/rehab area as well as The Tom Graveney Members’ Lounge.

The entire Benchmark product range is available in a myriad of colours and textures, allowing specifiers to achieve a complete facade solution without compromising on style or performance.

To receive a copy of the Benchmark CD-ROM, including the quick guide, please call: (01352) 717251 or email: info@kingspanbenchmark.com